Dodgers Feel Alou Is Close to a Deal

The Dodgers are preparing to introduce Felipe Alou as their new manager early next week, baseball sources said Thursday.

Team President Bob Graziano and General Manager Kevin Malone offered Alou a multiyear contract to join the organization in meetings in the Dominican Republic on Wednesday and Thursday.

Alou is expected to accept the club’s offer--possibly this weekend--after he returns to his off-season home near Miami. Alou is under contract with the Montreal Expos for next season, but the Expos recently granted permission for the Dodgers to pursue Alou.

Contacted Thursday night in the Dominican Republic, Graziano and Malone said they were encouraged by their ongoing talks with Alou. Meanwhile, several Dodger officials in Los Angeles said they believe an agreement is imminent.

“What we’re trying to do is explain to Felipe that we could be a good fit for him,” Graziano said. “We know that Felipe could be a good fit for the Dodgers, and we feel very good about the conversations we’ve had over the last couple of days.

“But this is not a decision Felipe is going to take lightly. Felipe is under an enormous amount of pressure to remain with the Expos, and we understand that. Obviously, the sooner Felipe makes a decision the better it is for us. But we don’t want to rush someone into a decision they don’t feel completely comfortable with.”

In a last-ditch effort, key members of the Expo ownership consortium are planning to meet with Alou at his home today. They hope to persuade Alou, considered among the best managers in the major leagues, to remain with the struggling franchise because he provides credibility in the community.

“We’re still going to try to keep Felipe here,” said Montreal General Manager Jim Beattie, who is authorized to match the Dodgers’ financial offer. “I plan to go down [to Miami today] because we still hope we have a shot to keep him.”

Malone remains optimistic that Alou, his longtime friend, will accept the Dodgers’ offer. But Malone reaffirmed that he doesn’t expect an agreement to be reached as quickly as some expect.

“I’ve said all along that this is going to be very difficult decision for Felipe because of how loyal he is,” Malone said.

“Felipe is a unique person, and he’s not someone who takes his relationships lightly.

“But having said that, I still feel optimistic. I know what Felipe can help us accomplish, and that’s why I want him here.”